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Autism: Focus on the Family A diagnosis of autism not only affects the individual who has received the diagnosis, but it also dramatically affects the family members of that individual. At the Verbal Behavior Center for Autism (VBCA) the focus on the family is just as important as the individual goals established for each child. Family members of children with autism need to feel supported as they navigate through ways to determine how to interact effectively with their child at home or in the community. Natural Environment Training (NET) is a significant portion of a child’s Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) Therapy program that allows for learning opportunities to occur in the environment that the response most naturally occurs in. A child’s home and his/her community are places where a significant amount of time is spent. Therefore, these are two locations that allow for great natural learning opportunities. Learning Opportunities in the Home: • Toilet training and self-help skills: Independent toileting is one of the most important skills an individual must learn in order to be as self-sufficient as possible. The VBCA’s teaching strategies begin in our Center-Based program and evolve to home where we provide family members the training needed to sustain toileting independence. • Appropriate play with siblings: One’s siblings are oftentimes a child’s first playmates. Consequently, it is only natural to take the opportunity to teach a child with autism how to play with his/her siblings. Using ABA Therapy strategies, the VBCA teaches a child how to play, and then the next step is to teach him/her how to play with others. • Eating dinner as a family: Eating dinner together can oftentimes be one of the only things a busy family is able to do
together each day. Therefore, it can be a significant detriment if a child with autism does not join in his/her family’s meal sharing. Through ABA Therapy, the VBCA has taught children how to sit at the same table with his/her family while eating dinner. Learning Opportunities in the Community: • Getting a haircut: Getting a haircut can be a scary and confusing process for children with autism, however, it is a necessary process. Children enrolled at the VBCA who demonstrate hesitation to haircuts may gradually receive individualized learning opportunities to expose him/her to the sights and sounds of a salon. At first the child may simply walk to the entrance of the salon, then later sit in the chair, then later simply tolerate scissors touching his/her hair, until eventually a full haircut is completed. • Grocery shopping: Going grocery shopping can be a mundane task for any child. If trips to the grocery store prove difficult for families of children at the VBCA, then learning opportunities can be provided within that setting. Therapy oftentimes consists of incorporating fun components into the shopping for the child while simultaneously establishing proper guidelines, such as staying near mom and/ or dad. • Eating in a restaurant: It can be difficult to eat at a restaurant when there is a significant amount of waiting involved between the time the order has been taken and when the food is delivered to the table. If this is a difficult expectation for a child enrolled at the VBCA, then teaching occurs at the family’s favorite restaurant. Therapy strategies are then put into place that will aid the child in engaging in appropriate behavior while waiting. -Dr. Breanne Hartley, Clinical Director (bhartley@vbca.org} For additional information regarding the VBCA, please call 317-848-4774 or visit www.vbca.org.
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3rd Graders and iRead At j&R Tutoring Academy we have had one student test at grade level in reading comprehension! Since we pull from five different school districts with different reading programs, there is no way to determine what the underlying problems may be. Children often score high on our diagnostic in sight words and phonics, but well below grade level in comprehension. Current reading programs emphasize the ability to read passages without making mistakes. As a result, the children focus on being able to sound out/read the correct words. The energy taken for this may not leave time to absorb the written words themselves. The student is reading words, but not comprehending. Comprehension is a higher level skill. It must be developed. That development takes time. 6
This past January we were literally deluged with parents who suddenly realized that their third grader may not be equipped to pass iRead. As a result, we developed a special iRead preparation program. Our program focuses on the same reading and comprehension skills and applications the test covers. Unfortunately parents tend not to worry about iRead until after the first of the year. At that point there is about three months until iRead. Although that may seem like a long time, in tutoring time it is about 24 hours. Is that enough time to fill in the gaps? By enrolling your third grader in our special iRead Prep program, you will provide him or her with the tools necessary to fly through iRead! Reading is the foundation of all learning, and that foundation is built in the early elementary years. Make it a strong one!
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Business
SPOTLIGHT Language, communication and social skills are natural components of a Montessori pre-school, common deficits found in autism. Skills such as these are acquired in the natural setting
along-side peers in fun and functional activities. ABA therapy is an evidenced based program teaching communication and social practices to individuals with autism. Autism Parent Care combines the two, for the best of both worlds. Our staff includes a PhD who studies the brain, a BCBA and Clinical therapists. A unique part of the APC intervention is the availability of a periodic brain scan, demonstrating re-wiring as a result of intervention. Visualization of wiring allows us to know which brain pathways have made long term changes, alongside generalization of knowledge. Traditional ABA therapy methods are honored in a friendly, caring and functional environment which allows our clients to interact within their world in conjunction with peers. Effortless learning takes place when children learn from peers, making it more meaningful and dynamic. Both the Montessori program and facets of ABA therapy are applied on a daily basis, unique to each client yet supported by staff members working in collaboration. Working collaboratively with outside sources such as Speech, OT, PT, HIPPO and Music therapies provides a well-rounded program for each individual. One client began as a quiet and withdrawn little girl, after two weeks in our unique program, her father commented on the growth of her vocabulary and how she now has a word for “everything” and will readily share them with
Autism Parent Care those around her. She has quickly learned how to navigate her environment, her world is now open to include peers and adults alike.
Parent Testimonial 11/5/14 As any parent with a child on the spectrum all you pray for is for your child to have a “normal” childhood and educational experience. I lookedat various programs for children on the spectrum and felt there was something missing. The Montessori program addressed ALL aspects I was personally looking for, not just behavioral. It addressed education, socialization, individualized learning while maintaining my child in a small classroom setting with other children. A child on the spectrum can have any number of behavioral or cognitive issues and the most impressive aspect of the evaluation process was the Brain Mapping. Often parents are asked to fill out a plethora of questions only, but with the Brain Mapping I could see exactly what parts of my daughter’s brain were on, off, or low functioning. Not to mention this was a very short non-evasive process. Upon entry to this innovative program I saw immediately the verbal increase in my daughter. She has ABA therapy during class while receiving classroom instruction and additional one-on-one in the afternoon. In addition to the excellent support services, the Montessori program fosters an environment where other children exhibit empathy, friendship, and an explorative selfpaced learning with the incorporation of STEM education (Science, Technology, Engineering and Math). This is a rare find. Every day my daughter his happy to go to school, excited about education and well cared for. Her educational potential is personal to her, but that fact that she is excited about education is a step in the right direction toward success. I couldn’t ask for a better program and competent staff. While this setting may not be for every child I would invite parents of a child on the spectrum to consider this as an additional option Janetta McKenzie, LSW, MS
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See pg 9 See pg 29
See pg 30
See pg 12
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See pg 8 See pg 15 See pg 7
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Liam & Finnegan’s Autism Journey By: Megan C. (Mother of Liam & Finnegan)
When our twin boys, Liam and Finnegan, were diagnosed with autism, all my focus and attention went to finding people who could help them learn. I was so sure of their potential- when I looked at them I saw smart, happy, spirited little boys who saw and felt the world in a way that was foreign to me. I was convinced that despite the diagnosis, they were just as capable as anyone else to learn and grow, and I wanted to find a way to connect with them and have a better relationship with them. I had been advised that ABA therapy was the best way to help my boys learn, so I enrolled them in ABA therapy at another center. At the time, Finnegan said a few words but had no functional language and Liam was completely nonverbal. I was apprehensive about sending them to therapy, as they were usually home with me all day, but I knew that one-on-one therapy was best for them and was something I obviously couldn’t provide for them myself. Their time at the other therapy center wasn’t anything I was expecting. I felt completely left in the dark about my kids’ days, and I didn’t see much improvement in my boys. I wanted my children to talk, but more importantly I wanted my children to communicate in any form they could, and I didn’t see much improvement. I needed someone outside my family to see the same potential in my boys that I did, and most importantly, I wanted my children to be children- to have fun and be able to play with other children and play as they learn. I felt therapy had become “work” for my boys and knew they were frustrated at not being able to communicate. They weren’t happy and had heightened behaviors at home and zero confidence in themselves. I was convinced ABA therapy was not right for us. My husband and I decided to give ABA therapy one more chance with the Applied Behavior Center for Autism. We started the boys at ABC last October, hopeful that it was the perfect place where our boys can learn and grow in a fun environment. From day one, we have been met with an incredible staff that believes in our children. At our first parent
meeting, we were met with raves about how smart our boys are and how much potential they have. The staff worked with our boys on improving communication, and in a short amount of time, Finnegan began talking in short sentences and making requests. Liam was able to learn to make requests using sign language, and 5 months into starting at ABC, he said his very first words! He is now able to make requests for what he wants and needs with ease. Both of my boys are now using short sentences to communicate. Every milestone that my children make has been met with cheers from their therapists. My husband and I are always informed of everything my boys do. My kids are allowed to be kids- they play with other children and play with toys and games that interest them, and they literally run to their therapy rooms each day because they’re so excited to be there! Liam and Finnegan both have therapy plans that are catered specifically to each of them. They participate in oneon-one treatments such as behavior consulting, social skills training, ABA therapy, speech therapy, occupational therapy, special needs swim lessons and more. ABC treats my children with a level of respect they deserve. They are praised and celebrated for who they are and they are encouraged to learn and grow daily. Their therapists work under the assumption that my children can learn and do anything. My children are valued at ABC, and it has made such a difference in their development. Every child deserves to be treated as if they are capable of anything, and my boys’ therapists have helped them discover that anything is possible. That dedication and support from their therapists have made such a difference with them. I want my children to grow up with confidence and determination and pride in who they are. ABC is giving them a solid foundation for that confidence. They have found a place where they belong, and for that I’m so thankful. For more information visit our website at www. appliedbehaviorcenter.org or call us at 317-849-KIDS ext. 112.
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Proud Sponsors of Resources for Special Needs Children
& Applied Behavior Center for Autism See pgs. 16, 17, 32 www.appliedbehaviorcenter.org ABC for Autism is proud to be Indiana’s largest and longest running ABA therapy provider. With 7 locations statewide (Indy North, Early Childhood Center, Indy West, Greenwood, Richmond, Terre Haute and Carmel), ABC provides one-on-one individualized programming in the areas of ABA therapy, behavior consulting, speech therapy, occupational therapy and special needs swim lessons for ages 2 and older. BACA Behavior Analysis Center for Autism See pg. 26 Contact Sarah Cox: Scox@TheBACA.com 317.436.8961 High quality, intensive ABA Programs overseen by PH.D. behavior analysts. Brain Balance See pg. 19 www.brainbalanceindy.com 317.843.9200 9510 N. Meridian St., Indianapolis Brain Balance’s Program has changed the lives of kids suffering with ADHD, learning disorders and behavioral issues. We integrate cognitive, sensorymotor and nutritional training into a highly effective, drug-free program that targets your child’s specific challenges. Conduct Curb conductcurb.com 317.966.1987 Physical Aggression, Verbal Aggression, Property Destruction, Tantrums, Refusals & Inappropriate Public Behavior.
Potential! Dramatic Results using Cutting-edge NASA Technology! Natural Valley Ranch See pg. 12 www.NaturalValleyRanch.com www.NaturalValleyTherapeuticRiding.org Marie@NaturalValleyRanch.com 317-509-3577 Birthday Parties, Trail Rides, Lessons, Petting Zoo Hayride/Bonfire, Therapeutic Riding Pilipis Behavioral Group LLC See pg. 12 b.weir@pilipisbg.com www.pilipisbg.com tel. (317) 572-1313, fax (317) 572-9999 152 S 9th St., Noblesville, IN 46060. Specializes in School Social Work and provides support and guidance to families and children. The Verbal Behavior Center for Autism See pgs. 2, 3 www.vbca.org 317.848.4774 9830 Bauer Drive Indpls., IN 46280 The Verbal Behavior Center for Autism provides yearround services offering one-on-one Applied Behavior Analysis therapy to children with autism ages 2 -12. All programs are overseen by Board Certified Behavioral Consultants who together have a combined 45 years of experience. Tour our center, call us or view our website today!
I Can We Can See pg. 30 www.icanwecan.org kelly@icanwecan.org 224.515.9060 Aquatic Therapy Gymnastic-Based Therapy 1:1 & Small Group Sessions Available
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Anxiety and Your Child Research studies show that about 8% of the population is affected by anxiety disorders. This can be exceptionally tough when you’re watching your child suffer with panic attacks, anxiety, nervousness or worry. It can be heartbreaking to support your child as he feels he has no control over a feeling that either comes over him “in a moment’s notice” or a feeling that seems to be part of his general operating system. As a parent it can leave you feeling anxious and confused about how you can help your child. The good news is that anxiety is manageable and your child can be taught skills to help him “dial down” these seemingly uncontrollable emotions. If your child experiences a large degree of nervousness, worry, fear, or panic it is important for you to seek a specialist who can help him with anxiety reduction techniques. There are two particular types of techniques that address anxiety. Children learn that they can either work on preventing the anxiety from occurring or focus on reducing it. In other words, anxiety management techniques teach children how to turn down the anxiety or prevent it. Deep breathing with visualization can be very successful in treating anxiety. Asking kids to imagine breathing in a peaceful calming color and breathing out the color of stress can both prevent and reduce anxiety. When children do this before they go to bed at night, they feed their subconscious thoughts that increase a sense of control. When kids begin to feel a panic attack coming on they can use this technique to dial down the amount of anxiety therefore giving them some sense of mastery. Having children “physicalize” their anxiety can also be helpful. Encouraging them to play a sport or participate in judo or other martial arts teaches children that they can channel their anxiety into sports and activities that will externalize many of the symptoms that feed into anxiety.
The good news is that children of all ages can learn these techniques. As a matter of fact the younger the child is, the more likely he will utilize his imagination which increases his ability to manage anxiety. When I worked at Riley Carol Juergensen Sheets Hospital for Children, I taught children self hypnosis. Kids are masters at going into altered states when they’re playing, or listening to music, gaming, coloring or doing other art projects. Teaching them a few basic steps allows them to use deep breathing along with some focusing and meditative techniques that teach them to center themselves which can aid in the reduction of anxiety. Play therapy can be helpful when dealing with very small children. Teaching kids how to teach their dolls how to reduce anxiety often assisted in the child herself reducing her own anxiety. Using art therapy was also a valuable tool. Small kids were often asked to color a picture of what their anxiety looked like and then together we create a second picture which reduced the intensity of the colors or we would make the size of the anxiety smaller which would teach the child that she can reduce the intensity, frequency or impact of the anxiety. Medication may also be a strategy for children who suffer from the disorder, however most practitioners advocate that children see a therapist who specializes in cognitive behavioral therapy or anxiety before they are assessed for medication. Your job as a parent is to empower your child to have all the tools they need to live the most normal life possible. There is help for your child to overcome anxiety!
Carol Juergensen Sheets LCSW PCC is a psychotherapist and personal life coach. She does motivational speaking and empowerment trainings locally and nationally. To find out more about her services--contact her at www. carolthecoach.com or call her at 317-218-3479. 20
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Monday Thru Sunday Multiple Days
Jim Dandy Family Restaurant Kids’ 5 and under eat free 2301 Conner St.773-3288 Noblesville PaPa Roux 8950 E. 10th Indy 603-9861 Nightly after 4 Perkins 250 Noble Creek Dr. Noblesville Monday Thru Wednesday 4 to close 776-2800 Barley Island Brewing Co. 630 Conner St.Noblesville 770-5280 Tuesday and Wednesday Quizno’s 14300 Mundy Dr Noblesville 7 days a week 4 to close dine in only 773-7041
Monday
Chick Fil-A 3360 W. 86th St. The Pyramids, Indy 871-5330 Latitude 39 4016 E. 82nd Fee Game Bowling, Kid’s Meal and $5 game card with adult meal 813-6565 Mexico City Grill Fishers 11653 Fishers Station Rd 577-1900 Mexican City Grill Indy 8028 S. Emerson Ave 884-4901 Castlers Kitchen and Bar 11501 Geist Pavilion Dr.596-9810 Fishers 5-9 Texas Road House Fishers 12950 Publishers Dr. 585-5020 Family Night 1.99 Kid’s Meal
Tuesday
MacKinzie River Pizza Carmel and 82nd St Castleton 564-4211 and 288-0609 Scotty’s Brewhouse 3905 E. 96th Street Indianapolis, IN & 1 Virginia Avenue, Indianapolis, IN 46204 CR Heroes 10570 E. 96th St. Fishers 576-1070 5-p Face Painting & Balloon Animals Cancun 6714 E 82nd St, Indianapolis 578-7054 Chick-fil-A Noblesville Buy one Get one Free Tuesday 5-9 773-4100 Chick Fil A Carmel 14647 US 31 North Family Night each Tuesday from 5-8pm 815-9465 Chick-fil-A Southport Rd. Indy 780-7477 Kids Night December 2nd Hellas Café 8501 Westfield Blvd 257-6211 Indy Champps Indy Northside 8711 N. River Crossing Blvd. 2 children eat free with 1 adult meal all day Tuesday Bob Evans’ Family Night from DJ 6-8pm One kid eats free with adult meal purchase. Greenwood In Perkin’s Castleton East 82nd St. Indy 842-9447 4-9 Joe’s Shelby St. Diner Indy 783-9590 Cheese Burger In Paradise South Indy 883-4386 Patriot Grill Restaurant 1265 N. Madison Greenwood 851-8252 Kid’s Eat Free and Magician Teddy’s Burger Joint 222W.Southport Rd Indy 893-2791 Thr3e Wise Men Brewery 1021 Broad Ripple Ave Indy 255-5151 Max and Erma’s Carmel and Greenwood 705-3988 and 882-4477 Panda Express 17055 Geist Pavilion Dr. Fishers 5-9 770-9684 (Con’t) (All Information subject to change without notice. Call ahead for details) 22
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ily Fam ht Wednesday g i N & ree Michaelangelo’s 550 Westfield Rd Noblesville Kids Eat Free 773-6066 Chick Fil A 3802 E. 82nd St. at the Crossing Kids Eat Free with Purchase 4 to 8 578-4511 EatF Kids Con’t. Grindstone Charley’s Rockville Rd and Crawfordsville Rd’s Indy 243-8760 and 481-1870 Johnny Rockets Greenwood Mall and Castleton Mall 881-6240 and 578-8015 5 to 9
Thursday
Johnny Carino’s Greenwood 885-5735
Friday
Chick Fil A Avon Rt 36 December 5th: Christmas Spectacular 5:00-7:00pm
Saturday
Steak N Shake all Indianapolis locations
Sunday
Scotty’s Brewhouse 3905 E. 96th Street Indianapolis, IN & 1 Virginia Avenue, Indianapolis, IN 46204 Granite City Food and Brewery 150 W. 96th St Carmel 218-7185 5-9 Magician 5-8 Steak N Shake all Indianapolis locations Rock Star Pizza 922 E. Main St. Brownsburg 858-1188 all day dine in Only (Please call ahead to verify details)
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The Behavior Analysis Center for Autism The Behavior Analysis Center for Autism (BACA) was established in 2009 by Carl Sundberg, Ph.D., BCBA-D, and a group of highly trained board certified behavior analysts (BCBAs.) BACA’s staff use the principles and procedures of applied behavior analysis (ABA) to teach language, social, self-help, academic, daily living and life skills to individuals with autism and related disorders. BACA has four centers in Indiana: BACA 1 and BACA Prep in Fishers, BACA Z in Zionsville and BACA Hart in Elkhart. BACA works with individuals ages 2-21+ and individualizes each program based on a client’s needs and goals. Prior to the opening of BACA, Dr. Carl Sundberg traveled the country consulting for parents and school districts. With these cases, he knew he wanted to provide more intense supervision. In 2009, he and his wife Devon made the decision to open their own center. From that point on, BACA’s mission was to provide high quality, intensive ABA with an emphasis on B.F. Skinner’s 26
analysis of verbal behavior to individuals diagnosed with autism. In addition, he wanted a high level of supervision for his staff. BACA’s staff and clients now work with a clinical team of behavior analysts that consists of Dr. Carl Sundberg, Dr. Mark Sundberg, Dr. Barb Esch, Dr. John Esch, Dr. Peter Gerhardt, Dr. Patrick McGreevy, Troy Fry, Bob Ryan and Dr. Genae Hall. Now, five years later, BACA works with families from all over the world. Families have relocated to Indiana permanently for the services and others have been a part of the BACA Atlas program. The staff work with individuals at all levels of learning and strive to make each client’s life as functional and independent as possible.
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December Calendar of Events November 15 – December 24 A Christmas Carol at Indiana Repertory Theater - Magic happens on a snow-covered stage. The family’s favorite holiday tradition comes gift-wrapped with fresh IRT surprises! The classic story of greed and redemption comes to life with Scrooge, Crotchet and, of course, Tiny Tim. Come and be visited by the spirits of holiday joy. www.irtlive.com November 15 – January 4 Christmas at Lilly House - During Christmas at Lilly House for 2014, Oldfields will be alive with holiday decorative ideas that were current during the 1930s and 1940s, a time that encompassed Depression-era frugality, wartime shortages, and an emerging postwar exuberance, each of which influenced Americans’ approach to decorating their homes. Décor in the house will include a combination of familiar favorites such as trees, wreaths, and greenery, as well as more unusual elements sure to delight visitors. Whether originating in an atmosphere of wartime scarcity or in times of peace and plenty, holiday décor expressed Americans’ wish for a sense of connection with tradition and for festive seasonal changes. November 22 – January 4 Jolly Days: A Tradition of “Jolly” Good Fun at The Children’s Museum - It’s cold outside… but it’s FUN (and warm) in here! See the sparkling lights, experience the warm traditions, and enjoy all the fun of winter weather without the soggy socks! You can even become an elf in training and earn elf ears by participating in winter activities in Jolly Days, including skating in socks on an indoor “pond,” climbing and sliding on the Snow Castle, “ice” fishing, pretend-baking holiday goodies in the Tradition Kitchen and indoor snowball fights. For many visitors, a highlight of their trip to Jolly Days includes a visit and photo with Santa (beginning November 28) who will be waiting to hear what’s on the wish lists of young museum visitors. www.childrensmuseum.org Friday, November 28, 6:00 – 8:00 pm Circle of Lights Tree Lighting - For 52 years, thousands of spectators have gathered Downtown at Monument Circle to see the most spectacular holiday display illuminate. Generations of families are drawn to this beautiful centerpiece each year. Indy’s most beloved holiday tradition features 4,784 lights and 52 garland strands which are used to create the 242-foot display. The magic continues with toy soldiers and peppermint sticks encircling the Monument and many more lights to enjoy. The actual light-up will occur at approximately 7:45pm. Fireworks will follow. Live entertainment begins at 6 p.m. www.indydt.com
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Friday, November 28 – Sunday, January 4 Christmas at the Zoo - As the temperatures drop, let holiday traditions at the Zoo warm your heart! Christmas at the Zoo is a truly magical time as we cover the Zoo in twinkling lights! Sip a hot beverage, visit the animals, and enjoy exhibits and special activities throughout the Zoo. As with any Zoo event, the animals play a special role for the holidays. Special dolphin shows and keepers chats help put a wild spin on this most wonderful time of the year. You can also decorate cookies, write letters to Santa, listen to carolers and warm up at the campfire. www. indyzoo.com Friday, November 28 – Tuesday, December 23 A Beef & Boards Christmas - It’s the most wonderful time of the year! Beef & Boards celebrates in style with its annual crowd pleaser. A glittering array of music and dance numbers, presented in a variety show format, create the perfect holiday tradition. Bring a group, bring the family, and just don’t miss it! Friday, November 28 – Wednesday, December 31 Celebration Crossing at The Indiana State Museum - This year’s Celebration Crossing comes alive with holiday merriment from the sounds of bands and choirs. Following their arrival via helicopter on November 28th, Santa and Mrs. Claus will entertain visitors in their new home on Level 1 of the museum through Dec. 24. Children of all ages can ride on the Santa Claus Express, make crafts to take home and gaze into the recreated L.S. Ayres store windows rekindling holidays past. www. indianamuseum.org Thursday, December 4, 5:00 – 9:00 pm Holiday Hullabaloo at the Indianapolis Museum of Art in the Lilly House Christmas Shop. It’s an evening of holiday shopping and festivities at the IMA. Find a unique gift for someone you love or shop for an extra special something to deck the halls for holiday gatherings. Enjoy music, complimentary giftwrap, holiday refreshments and special pricing available only during Holiday Hullabaloo! www.imamuseum.org Saturday, December 6, 1:00 am – 1:00 pm Cookies and Milk with Santa! at the Delaware Township Community Center, 9094 East 131st St, Fishers, IN. Enjoy fresh baked cookies with milk, holiday stories, craft corner & letters to Santa. $5.00 per child. All proceeds benefit HSE and FSH 2015 graduating senior scholarships. Sponsored by Fishers Station Kiwanis
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Sunday, December 7, 10:00 – 11:00 am Caring Santa at The Fashion Mall at Keystone. Caring Santa provides a subdued and welcoming environment for children with special needs and their families to visit Santa. Indiana Ballet Conservatory presents The Nutcracker - Saturday, December 6 at Murat Theatre Friday, December 12 – 14 at Indiana Museum of Art - Come experience the magic of Indiana’s premier Nutcracker tradition and enjoy the stellar dancing of Lasha Khozashvili, acclaimed principal dancer with Boston Ballet, and Miko Fogarty, star of First Position, Gold medalist at the Moscow IBC, Silver medalist at IBC - Varna, medalist at Prix du Lausanne & YAGP, and student of Indiana Ballet Conservatory. Children and adults of all ages will be transformed by this heartwarming tale of a young girl and her beloved Nutcracker as she battles off evil and learns the value and resiliency of the human spirit. http://www. indianaballetconservatory.org Tuesday, December 16 – Sunday, December 21 ELF The Musical on Tour at The Murat Theatre at Old National Centre. ELF is the hilarious tale of Buddy, a young orphan child who mistakenly crawls into Santa’s bag of gifts and is transported back to the North Pole. Unaware that he is actually human, Buddy’s enormous size and poor toy-making abilities cause him to
face the truth. With Santa’s permission, Buddy embarks on a journey to New York City to find his birth father, discover his true identity, and help New York remember the true meaning of Christmas. This modern day Christmas classic is sure to make everyone embrace their inner. Wednesday, December 31, 5:00 pm – 12:30 am Downtown Indy’s New Year’s Eve on Georgia Street features an exciting entertainment line-up, stimulating sights, plenty of food and drink and a unique midnight extravaganza. Step inside out of the cold thanks to Pacers Sports & Entertainment. Family-friendly activities are planned inside the Entry Pavilion at Bankers Life Fieldhouse with the united support of the Pacers, Fever, Colts, Indians and the Indianapolis Motor Speedway. At 11:59 p.m. on 12/31, when in most cities the traditional “ball drop” takes place, a suspended Indy Car hoisted high above the crowd will descend to a collective countdown amidst great fanfare and fireworks at midnight. www.indydt.com Wednesday, December 31, 6:00 – 9:00 pm Family News Year’s Eve - The holiday season concludes with a family-friendly, alcohol-free celebration in the Governor Frank O’Bannon Great Hall. Children and adults will enjoy live music, games, crafts, magicians and clowns. The party even includes a balloon drop for the little ones at 8 p.m. www.indianamuseum.org
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After the Holidays The holidays are over. You have eaten way too much, you are exhausted from all the gatherings you attended, and your house is a mess. Your child with autism is likely to be out of sorts and unable to calm him/herself. How do you get your life and your child’s life back in order? How do you re-establish your daily routines? The sooner you get life back to normal, the better. Review your established routines. Do they work for you and your family? If so reinstate them. If you don’t have established routines, or the routines you use aren’t working well for you and your family, it’s a good time to implement them. There are several activities that happen daily that can be scheduled and planned. Think about your child’s bedtime routine. It should at the same time each evening, but beyond that, are there other things that are part of going to bed that happen each bedtime? Make a list of those activities and put them in order of occurrence. You should plan backwards. What is your child’s bedtime? What activities take place as he/she is getting ready for bed? There may be a shower or bath, brushing teeth, putting on pajamas, and reading a book that all come before climbing into bed. Calculate the amount of time needed for each of these steps and determine when you need to start the routine. You can encourage your child’s independence in following the routine by creating a visual schedule for him/her to follow. You can use your own photographs of your child completing each activity, you can cut pictures from a magazine, or you can find pictures on the internet to use. Arrange the pictures in the correct sequential order (top to bottom often works best) and review the schedule with your child. Your child should know what
each picture represents and how to complete the activity. Practice one routine using the visual schedule for a week or more before adding other schedules to your child’s life. Once he/she is able to complete the activities that are on the visual schedule with an appropriate amount of independence, you can add other visual schedules to support additional routines. Consider creating a visual schedule for school day mornings, dinner time, homework completion, or any other daily activity. Keep your visual schedules as simple as possible. Limit your pictures to no more than five for children who are in elementary school. Older children can handle a longer visual schedule for more complex tasks. This is an example of a visual support that is helpful for children with autism, but when we think about it, we all rely on visual supports. Consider the teacher who posts a calendar on the wall of the classroom, the business person who depends on the iphone in their hand to keep track of events, or the baker following a new recipe. These are all types of visual support that we use every day. Think of how your child can be provided the same type of support in an age appropriate way. These supports can help make your child more independent and better able to anticipate what comes next in their lives. You and your child will both feel calmer as you start and finish each day.
Mika Adams
Autism Consultation, LLC
www.autismconsultation.net
866-968-3698
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